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A Complete Guide to Modern Upholstery
Part 1 - Where to begin
with MICAELA SHARP — Sustainable designer and modern upholstery expert. TV presenter and interior design judge.
Lesson 43 of 68
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You’ve now got the skills and experience to move onto our final project: upholstering an armchair, specifically a mid-century style box chair.
From the Lesson Workbook
Part 1- Where to Begin
You've now got the skills and experience to move onto our final project: upholstering an armchair, specifically a mid-century style box chair.
An Introduction to Box Century Chairs
The reason I have chosen a mid-century chair for this project is primarily because of its seat platform which tends to be made out of zigzag springs and foam, as these are the techniques I'll be teaching.
Antique chairs will mostly likely have coil springs which is a different technique – and it's normally best to replace like for like.
To follow along with me, look out for a fairly boxy-shaped chair with a square frame, covered arms, a zigzag seat platform and a box cushion.
If you want to strip and revarnish the legs of your chair, it's best to do this before putting any new fabric on.
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May 31, 2026
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Interior and exterior confidence
Create Academy has been such a great resource. I'm in the middle of renovating a bungalow with a very large garden and the courses have offered a wealth of information to dive into and explore new ideas. I'm...
Harvey
Jun 10, 2026
Absolutely love Create Academy
Absolutely love Create Academy! The instructors are extremely informative, and it is beautifully filmed. Create Academy is great value for money and plan on renewing my subscription yearly because there are ...
SG
May 31, 2026
Magic in small spaces
Butter's creativity is stunning! Her ability to incorporate brilliance in small gardens is magical!
Carla
May 30, 2026
Your Instructor
Micaela Sharp
Sustainable designer and modern upholstery expert. TV presenter and interior design judge.
Micaela Sharp is a professional upholsterer, interior designer and broadcaster who champions the art of reupholstery and its ability to breathe new life into pre-loved furniture. Growing up, Micaela learnt both carpentry and sewing skills from her grandparents. It was this knowledge, alongside a passion for sustainability and longevity, that inspired her to take up upholstery and set up her own practice. Whether it’s designing furniture from scratch, reimagining a tired armchair into an heirloom to be cherished for years to come, or creating a room scheme layered with fabric and colour, Micaela brings her unique creativity and inventive flair to every project.
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